The Victorian Government is making strides in providing more accessible and world-class early learning options for families across the state. In Term 1, 2025, 20 new or expanded kindergartens will open their doors to more than 2,600 local children, ensuring that families have greater access to quality education close to home.
These kindergartens, strategically located at government schools, are designed to make the transition from early learning to primary school smoother for children and more convenient for parents and carers. By placing kindergartens on or near schools, the government is offering an enhanced learning experience while simplifying drop-offs and pickups for busy families.
The new kindergartens will be operated by 13 trusted service providers, including well-established names such as Community Kinders Plus, Gannawarra Shire Council, and Early Childhood Management Services. Each provider will deliver both kindergarten and Pre-Prep programs, with the aim of preparing children for their next educational steps. The full list of successful service providers includes:
– Community Kinders Plus at Tootgarook Primary School Kindergarten
– Gannawarra Shire Council at Kerang South Primary School Kindergarten
– Early Childhood Management Services at Barayip Primary School Kindergarten
– Topirum Primary School Kindergarten by Emerge Early Years Services
– Nhill Early Learning Centre at Nhill College by Kids First Australia
– Eureka Community Kindergarten Association at Ballan Primary School Kindergarten
– Gippsland Lakes Complete Health at Lakes Entrance Primary School Kindergarten
– Gowrie at Broadmeadows Valley Primary School Kindergarten
– Shine Bright EYM at Mildura South Primary School Kindergarten
– And more!
A key change coming in 2025 is the gradual transition of Four-Year-Old Kindergarten to Pre-Prep, a shift that will affect children starting at kindergartens in Yea, St Arnaud, Kerang South, and Dimboola. These children will be among the first to experience this transition as part of the government’s ongoing commitment to improving early childhood education.
As more families benefit from these expanded facilities, Victoria continues to lead the way in making early childhood education accessible, effective, and closer to home. Parents and caregivers will have peace of mind knowing their children are in a nurturing environment that supports their development and readiness for primary school.
For more information about the new kindergartens and Pre-Prep transition, visit the Victorian Government website or contact your local kindergarten service provider.